What makes Christian Science relevant today?

How time flies. Just over a year ago, I wrote this post about my trip into West Texas. Enjoy the look back. —

Diary – Tuesday, July 20

9 AM – Meeting with Pat Attebery, Anchor KLST-TV CBS. Pat is a kind and professional woman. I explained to her that Christian Science practitioners are self-employed healers who devote themselves full time to helping others through prayer. They do not offer counseling, diagnosis, prognosis, or any physical manipulation or treatment, however, they do offer Christian Science treatment (prayerful treatment) — as explained in Mary Baker Eddy’s book, Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures.

I read where Arthur Brisbane, a New York journalist back in the 1900’s, once interviewed Eddy. He later told friends, “…it was my privilege to discover one of the keenest intellects I had ever encountered and the most gentle and sweet woman I had ever met. Her very presence was restful to me. During our conversation I mentioned this, telling her how very tired I was. She then asked me if I would like to have a Christian Science treatment and I told her I would. All I can say is that it was a most unbelievably beautiful experience….that treatment proved to me the great need in the world for Christian Science.”

12 PM – Lunch at Fentues (think spinach enchiladas – yum) with the San Angelo Posse (Barbara Provencal, Norm Rousselot, and Ginger Hudspeth) – members of First Church of Christ, Scientist, San Angelo.

1 PM – The Posse and I met with John Stokes, District Director for State Sen. Robert Duncan. We explained to John that we are very much in support of strong laws that protect elders and children. The safety of people at these vulnerable stages is paramount. At the same time, there is a place for spiritual care when it is practiced responsibly. Legislation that doesn’t have a bias against effective spiritual care is one that is just and fair. Each member of the Posse has experienced healing and help through Christian Science in their own lives and have learned they can rely on it as a first choice in healing.

1:30 PM – The Posse and I invaded State Rep. Drew Darby’s office (Darby pictured left). Cheryl DeCordova, District Director, met with us. I explained to Cheryl that although the Christian Science Church did not ask for healthcare reform, yet, since it is a mandate, it is only fair that spiritual care be included. Mr. Shimkus of Illinois added a “Prohibition of discrimination in health care services based on religion or spiritual content” amendment into the healthcare legislation as it moved close to signing. However, it was pulled at the last minute. After Obama signed the legislation into law, seeing the Christian Science system of healing was left out, US Senators Kerry and Brown and Representatives Waxman and Miller stated in the Congressional Record’s Extension of Remarks that something needed to be done to remedy this exclusion.

2:45 PM – Meeting with Laurel Scott, reporter at Standard Times. We talked about the need for more civility today, especially in politics. Laurel then asked, “What makes Christian Science relevant today?” Great question. I believe, what makes it relevant today is what made it so relevant 140 years ago – simple, beautiful, effective healing. This healing not only restores the body to health, it transforms thought. It has made me a better husband, son, and father.

I told Laura that when growing up, my two brothers, sister, and I, from 1st grade through the end of High School, received certificates at the end of each school year for perfect attendance. It wasn’t that we never had problems. It was because our parents prayed and we were quickly healed of all the usual childhood aches and illnesses.

I enjoyed my time with Laura. She knows how to read people and is an example of grace lived.

8 PM – Again, thought about spinach enchiladas as I drove 2 hours from San Angelo to Midland. Five meetings in Midland/Odessa July 21. It’ll be a busy day, as well.

First posted on July 29, 2010

– Keith Wommack is a Syndicated Columnist, Christian Science practitioner and teacher, husband, and step-dad. He has been described as a spiritual spur (since every horse needs a little nudge now and then). Keith’s columns originate at: KeithWommack.com

Note: This blog is a not a Houston Chronicle staff blog. The Houston Chronicle is not responsible for the content contained in this blog.

About Keith Wommack

I am a Christian Science practitioner and teacher, and the Christian Science Committee on Publication for Texas -- I've been described as a spiritual spur (since every horse needs a little nudge now and then).